5 THINGS FOR BEING YOUR HAPPIEST SELF
12/10/2015
Your happiest self? That all sounds slightly hippie doesn’t it? My 15 year old, cool self – well, realistically I was never cool, but at least I thought I was – would’ve laughed out loud at that title and told myself to go and hug a tree, but as I’ve got older, I’ve realised that sometimes you do just need to give yourself a little TLC and make sure you’re doing as much as possible to live the happiest life that you can.
I feel like this would be the perfect opportunity to use the phrase YOLO, but I also feel that I’d want to punch myself in the face for doing so.
Cringy phrases and harsh teenage comments aside, here are my top 5 tips for being the happiest you that you can be. And if all else fails, you can always go and plonk yourself in front of a photo of Ryan Gosling with a tub of ice cream and a shovel, because that always works… 😉
Stop comparing yourself to others – I know I wanted to avoid cringy phrases but comparison really is the thief of joy. Not comparing yourself is much easier said than done and something that I struggle with on a daily basis but I have come to realise that there is literally nothing to gain from comparison, and as I know it’ll only serve to make me feel like shit bring down my mood, I try my damnedest to avoid doing it. One thing I always like to remember is that for every person that you look up to and negatively compare yourself to in comparison… there will be somebody that feels the same way towards you. Also, you can’t compare your chapter 1 to their chapter 5 (oh jesus christ, what I did say about avoiding the cringe?) so focus on yourself and being the best version of you.
Surround yourself with positive people – The people around you can
really effect your mindset, so that girl that’s constantly negative and bitchy and generally dampens your mood? They’re not going to be the best person to be around. I’m not saying just ditch people from your life, but what I am saying is that you have the option to choose your happiness, and those people won’t help you do that. I have the most incredible family and a very small friendship group – quality over quantity – that make me laugh, occasionally cry (with laughter and because of loveliness), make me feel good about myself and generally, just…
happy. And those are the people that I need in my life!
Looking after yourself from within – I’ve spoken about my stress/”I need a break, blogging is frying my brain” levels before, and have also waxed lyrical about the benefits of Yoga. Now, I love Yoga, and there are some great youtube video’s out there, however sometimes I’m not really
committed enough to do it because it’s too easy for my mind to wander and the next thing I know, I’m back on my computer editing a video. I recently discovered
Yoogaia and this is where my “Yoga life” (now that is a sentence I
never thought I would say) totally changed!
So why has Yoogaia made such a difference? Yoogaia are the first live, online Yoga studio in the world (yep, you read that right, pretty impressive!) that offers Yoga, pilates, core and barre classes to you in the comfort of your own home, and in real time. Live! OK, I think you get the gist that it’s live now… But you do also have the opportunity to watch back a recording of a session you’ve missed so you definitely have the best of both worlds. All you need is your computer to watch the session with, a webcam (you’re not visible to other participants, only the instructor who you can see on your screen too) and you’re ready to go. What I also think is really impressive, is the pricing. If you go ahead and pay for 1 month it’s €19.99 per month, book for 3 months, €14.99, and book ahead for the year, you get it for €9.99. Oh, and did I mention that using the code ELLE you get a two week trial? Well, you do [insert party popper/clapping hand emoji’s here]. So you have no excuse to not give yourself the most zen – and therefore happy – experience whether it’s for 15 minutes or an hour. Also if you compare it to the cost of a gym membership (that’s collecting dust in your bag now that it’s too chilly to go out early in the mornings and you’d rather be watching Gossip Girl on Netflix in the evenings) you’re in for a right bargain I personally think. In all seriousness though, I really do love using Yoogaia, I love that you have the motivation of going to a class but the comfort of being in your home. I love that it fits around your lifestyle and that you can pick and choose which classes you want to do and when. And I love that I always come away feeling so much happier in myself.
Look after yourself on the outside… pamper yourself! – For me personally, whilst I love skincare and makeup, the one thing that I neglect is my body. Pampering yourself and taking even just an hour out to use some of your favourite products, paint your nails, wash your hair or even fake tan (if that’s your kinda thing, I personally have lost the patience for it right now) can have such an effect on how you feel about yourself, and generally your overall happiness. One of my favourite pamper product collections comes courtesy of
Rituals and it’s their incredible
Happy Buddah range* (I mean, it’s almost like it was made
specifically for this blog post). Now, it is very,
very rare that I love a
whole range, generally I always find at least one product that doesn’t quite compare to the rest but this range however, is really
special. Starting with the
shower foam which is genuinely one of the most luxurious I’ve ever used. The smallest amount lathers so well, it smells
incredible (as does the whole range which is based around Sweet orange and cedar and is completely
dreamy) and lasts forever. Next up is the
Body cream which I have to say, is probably my favourite. This cream is just pure luxury. Complete hydration that absorbs really well but also leaves your skin feeling nourished all day long. When I’m feeling fancy – [insert sassy girl in red dress emoji here] – I bring out the next product which the
Happy Buddha light bed and body mist. This acts like a light perfume and I love this because it’s not too over powering and is totally non-offensive. It doesn’t stain so is perfect for spritzing on your bed to keep yourself feeling happy and zen and also works as a great base underneath perfume. Finally (yep, we’re getting there, I promise), we have the hand cream. Much like the body cream it sinks in really quickly but leaves your hands feeling so nourished, soft and smooth… perfect for this time of year.
Be grateful for what you have – we live in a world where we always want what we don’t have. You’re the girl with curly hair but you’re desperate for it to be straight and vice versa. You compare yourself to others, you wished you had
that girls wardrobe, you wish you had
that girl’s job… but you know what, we can’t always have what we want and it’s times like this when you need to take stock and appreciate the things that you
already have in life. I have the best family I could ever ask for, I have a fiance, I have a house that I own and I have the job of my dreams. Now, that all sounds pretty perfect right?
Wrong! I also have
a lot of health issues, I am a huge over thinker/worker and run myself into the ground, and I also have a job that whilst I love it more than anything – I’m a full time blogger in case you didn’t know – it’s also a constant source of stress and worry as I put so much pressure on myself. But the thing is, I’ve learnt not to focus on these things and by being grateful for the good/amazing things that I already have, it immediately puts me in a much better mindset and makes me realise that actually, I really need to get a grip and appreciate how lucky I am.
I would love to know what you do to be your happiest self? What are your favourite remedies for down days? I’d love to hear your thoughts 🙂
As always, thanks so much for reading. I hope you enjoyed this post!
xx
This post is in collaboration with Yoogaia, but all thoughts, opinions and love of stress relieving downward dogs, my own.
Such gorgeous photos!
Candice | Beauty Candy Loves
Thanks so much Candice!
xx
Comparing yourself to others is definitely the worst you could do for yourself. On another note, Ritual products always smells divine! Xx
eLLa
every LiTTLE thing07
Totally agree with both points lovely!
xx
I loved this, such a good post! x
Thanks so much Jess, so glad you like it!
xx
YES YES YES YES YES. To all of these! Stop comparing and surround yourself with positive people is the best way to be the happiest you can be. Such a great post, lovely xx
Sam // Samantha Betteridge
Thanks so much Sam, I'm so glad you liked this post!
xx
I'm so with you on looking after yourself from within. Blogging means going out to a lot of events and dinners and I'd being feeling sluggish and not my best self. Taking time out from going out all the time to get my heath and fitness back has made me so much happier!
Lots of love,
Angie
SilverSpoon London
Yes, I couldn't agree with you any more Angie, blogging really does mean burning the candle at both ends doesn't it… I definitely learnt that I need to look after myself more!
xx
Love this post! I'm definitely one of those girls who stresses about the smallest of things, I always try and take a step back, and pamper myself of course… with lots of food.
Robyn / http://www.phasesofrobyn.com
Ahh me too lovely, I'm the worst and it's so bad for you isn't it! Yes, pamper time and all the food… has to be done!
xx
Not comparing yourself to others is definitely something I need to stop doing, it's just so hard and I almost feel like it's a bad habit I can't shake!
Jodie, xo // Jodie Loue
Oh me too Jodie, I'm trying so hard not to but it's so tough. I honestly think short of ignoring social media, I'll always struggle to do it!
xx
OH girl this post rocked (and you know it) – I've taken a big step recently in keeping my happiness high, and even though I'm busier than ever in my headspace, having that positivity around you really helps
Lauren x
Britton Loves | Lifestyle Food Beauty
Ah thank you lady although I don't feel like it. I'm so glad you're feeling happier lady, you deserve it!
xx
I absolutely loved this post and you look absolutely gorgeous!!! Comparison is my ultimate downfall as well as holding negative thoughts. At least three times a week I feel like deleting my blog and giving up!
hellomissjordan.com xx
Ah you babe, thanks so much for your kind (too kind) words. I totally know that feeling, I constantly compare myself and it makes me want to chuck it all in too.. but remember how hard you work, plus it's my job so I'd be screwed! haha
xx
Comparison is the WORST! But honestly it's all you do as a blogger/youtuber grrrrrr so frustrating! Great tips hun!
http://www.duchessoffashion.co.uk
Totally know that feeling, it's all I do constantly!! So glad you enjoyed it though 🙂
xx
I usually feel happiest after I've had a good old moan about something. It just feels great to get everything off your chest.
Rubi | Instagram | The Den | http://www.the-den.blogspot.com
Haha yes, I know that feeling so much!!
xx
Fantastic post! Definitely going to check out that Yoga website! x
Katina | http://www.katinalindaa.com
Yes, definitely do lovely, I've really enjoyed it!
xx
Absolutely gorgeous post, thank you so much for posting.
Hannah xx
thatthoughtfulgirl.blogspot.co.uk
Thanks so much lovely, so pleased you liked it!
xx
so many good points to being happy! I think being grateful is incredibly important. we are so focused on what we don't have that we forget we can be so content when we remember what we do have! 🙂
Metallic Paws
Thanks lovely, totally know that feeling and so agree with you on feeling more grateful, definitely something I'm trying to do every day!
xx
Love this! I think surrounding myself with positive people has really been the biggest factor for me! It's crazy how one negative person can really get you down!
<3 Shannon
Upbeat Soles
Yes, totally totally agree with you lovely.. doesn't it make the biggest difference!
xx
This is such a sweet idea for a blog post – and with great tips included! Being grateful for what you have is a really great piece of advice, after all, happiness is impossible to attain without that! 🙂
Gabrielle | A Glass Of Ice
x
Thanks so much lovely, I'm so pleased you liked the tips!
xx
I loved reading this, I really needed to hear about these tips on this Monday! Thanks for sharing these, I may have to check out Yoogaia! 🙂
xo Kiki
http://colormekiki.com/
Yes definitely check out Yoogaia, such a fab company!
xx
Being grateful and surrounding myself are the two things I try to consciously do most of the time! Comparison being the thief of joy, I completely understand, but it's easier said than done! I'm still working on that though. Thank you for these tips, Elle, and have a lovely week!
May | THE MAYDEN | Bloglovin'
Thanks lovely, totally agree, comparison is definitely a work in progress!
xx
What an amazing post! I'm loving the positivity!
Kim
http://trendkeeper.me .. October Wishlist!
Thanks so much Kimberly!
xx
I would say that not only is it important to have positive people around, but to spend the most time with those that are supportive too. Have a great week!
Suze | LuxuryColumnist
Thanks Suze!
xx
I am all over this happy buddah range it looks incredible and am definitely gearing myself up to start some yoga as I have been SO lazy lately xxx
Ah it's so lovely Jess, smells incredible.. definitely try it!
xx
I'm definitely guilty of comparing myself to others and comparing my blog to others which can be so disheartening! x
Heather | Of Beauty & Nothingness
Ditto to that lovely, I compare myself to other bloggers everyday and it's so detrimental isn't it? So trying not to do this!
xx
This sounds like a great product!
lifeisashoe
Thank you, they really are!
xx
Positive people make SUCH a difference, they can make you feel invincible and that you can take on the world!!!
Sophie xx
Haha I totally agree hun, they really can!
xx
I'm the world's worst at comparing myself to others. I literally do it every second, from blogging to work. It's something I definitely need to stop because it's just not good for me!
xoxo
jessica
from
http://www.thecrownwings.com
Me too lovely, it's so horrible isn't it. Trying my best not to anymore but it is tough!
xx
You gave great advices, I totally love 1st one to not comparing to others. You're so on point, when we do this, we don't gain anything.
http://crafty-zone.blogspot.com/
Thanks so much lovely, it's so hard to do but so important!
xx
I wholeheartedly agree with all that you have written – especially the comparison section. Comparing yourself to others is really futile. Great post! xx
Beautylymin
Ah thank you so much, so pleased you liked it!
xx
Yoogaia has won me over. I can't agree more.
Angie x | Chocolate & Lipstick || UK Beauty and Lifestyle Blog
It's so fab, I'd highly recommend!
xx
Love this need to explore Yoogaia!
http://www.georginahart.co.uk
It's honestly so fab, definitely check it out!
xx
This post is so inspiring! Love your writing style as always. We should all be grateful for what we have, we are always coveting another bag or wishing for a trip or new job
http://Leftbankgirl.blogspot.com
Ah thank you, that's made my day!
xx
Really enjoyed reading this post. Great tips.
Nina
http://www.ninasstyleblog.com
Thanks so much lovely, so glad you did!
xx
wow! amazing blog post ! had a good read 🙂 I just love blog like this !!! thanks for sharing keep up the good work
come say hi
Jadiee'sLittleBlog
Jade
Thanks so much Jadie, so glad you liked it!
xx
Amazing tips. I really enjoyed reading this. To be my happiest self, I tune out all the negative people in my life! I think it's important to surround yourself with people who actually care about you 🙂
a small bit | bloglovin
That's such good advice Jenn, I wish I found it easier to tune out the negative people, but focusing on the good is so important!
xx
SUCH a lovely post. Beautiful photos as well. I do a lot of yoga videos on Youtube, but have been focusing more on running at the moment. I'll definitely give that website a look though, sounds really interesting!
http://collectinglabels.com
Thanks so much Laura, that really means a lot. I'd really recommend Yoogaia, so many options!
xx
I totally agree with all these! Comparing yourself with others is bad, I used to do that a lot and now I try not to 🙂 Appreciating what we have is the best thing we could do for ourselves. xx
http://www.elabellaworld.com
Totally totally agree lovely!
xx
Definitely need to start doing these tips. I knew them already but sometimes I give up too easily! And I'm the worst at always wanting what I don't have haha. Lovely post! x http://coffeeatmidnight13.blogspot.co.uk/
So agree, they're all things that we know we need to be doing but they're so hard to do!
xx
Great tips! Especially the stop comparing and surround yourself with positive people. 🙂 those items sound so good! 🙂
Thanks so much lovely, so pleased you think so!
xx
You have the most beautiful, bright smile! I've got a lot of work to do on the road to a more positive outlook, but the last month has been much better in many ways, mostly because I've learnt how to enjoy my own company when I'm out of the house. Doesn't sound like much, but now I've stopped worrying about being alone, I actually really enjoy it. Great tips, lovely x
Martha Jane | http://www.marthajanemusic.com
Ahh thank you so much Martha that has completely made my day! That's an amazing step and so important, well done lovely!
xx
This is such a helpful and interesting post. I truly nod my head in agreement when you say to stop comparing ourselves with others as it leads to no where and pampering ourselves is the best stress reliever I know about.
Chaste & Beautiful
Thanks so much lovely, so pleased you agree too, it's tough though isn't it!
xx
Stunning photos! I definitely want to try some at-home yoga.
http://www.abigailalicex.com
I'd highly recommend it lovely, so calming and relaxing!
xx
Love this post! Yoga is so calming and I always feel really relaxed and happy afterwards even if I was crazy stressed before! xx
Chasing Belle 23
Great post dear! I love your blog:)
http://www.theprintedsea.blogspot.com
Love this post! I'm definitely guilty of comparing myself to others, but it's just so hard not to, definitely need to work on this!
Nishah – http://ramblingsofadevotedteadrinker.blogspot.co.uk/
Hope you had great day, dear!
http://crafty-zone.blogspot.com/
I love this post! It's so important to surround yourself with positive people, great point! Have a wonderful day 🙂
http://www.mintnotion.com
This is such a lovely post Elle! I agree with you 100% about being grateful, whenever I catch myself complaining about something, I always stop myself and think about the things that I am fortunate to have and am grateful for! Also loving the sound of Yoogaia, I've been meaning to get back into Yoga recently, so I'm going to give it a try! 🙂
Heather Xx
100waysto30.co.uk
Such a beautiful post! These are things that I really need to do a lot more of!
Katie | http://www.allprettyclassic.com
It is really important to take care of ourselves and pamper ourselves from time to time. Happiness requires a bit of effort, it doesn't just happen all the time. Great post 🙂
Ivona from http://www.thesmokedetector.net
xoxo
Wonderful post! so beautiful.
Regards
nebosh igc training in
Your so beautiful look like wonderful post! important your surround and yourself positive!its great point thanks for sharing. safety course in chennai|Industrial safety engineering course in chennai| fire and safety course training chennai|Iosh ms course training in chennai| best nebosh courses training institute in India such a very nice posting keep post!
wow! amazing blog post ! had a good read 🙂 I just love blog like this !!Best safety training institute in India|nebosh course in India|
safety engineering courses in chennai|Industrial safety engineering courses in chennai|fire and safety courses in chennai|Iosh course in chennai
Stunning photos! I definitely want to try some at-home yoga. safety courses in chennai|Diploma in safety courses training institute in chennai
Hi, Really its very nice blog post. and main thing is thanks for sharing this all. great work and good information. Guide for Health and Safety Workplace | Best Health and safety blog in the world | What is safety in workplace | Common Misconceptions About Workplace Safety | Powerful Workplace safety Tips for workers | Workplace Safety Should be your Prime Focus | Safety & Conditions to Prefer Tower Crane
packers and movers trichy Trichy established as one of the leading moving and Packing Company among all the packers and movers in Trichy, we are …
packers and movers coimbatore For Relocation Services, Get Phone Numbers, Address, Reviews, Ratings, Photos & Maps For Best Packers Movers in Coimbatore …
packers and movers cochin Trusted and affordable relocation services, movers and packers in Cochin at doorstep delivery with best quality packing and get …